by Ian Wilfred
“Remember when we first sat here over a year ago? You’d just bought the villa and it was such a special day.”
“You’re right, Gemma, it was a celebration, and today’s another one. The start of my birthday weekend! What better way to kick it off than with champagne!”
Gemma could see that this could easily turn into a late night, but it had been ages since the three of them had been out together, so she didn’t really mind. Rupert held court in his usual manner, encouraged by the barman who knew he’d be receiving a generous tip at the end of the evening. They did draw the line after two bottles, as firstly they were starving hungry and secondly none of them wanted to be nursing a hangover when the guests arrived the next day.
“I can’t believe either of you! It’s my birthday, we’re sitting here drinking champagne and neither of you have raised a toast to me. It would have been the first thing I’d have done for your birthday.”
“Ah, but it isn’t your birthday yet, Rupert.”
They laughed together and teased Rupert about his birthday weekend. Little did he know how many hours of work Dulcie and Gemma had put into the final night’s celebration. Finally, they settled the bill and headed off to El Pollo for their chicken dinner, where again everyone made a fuss of Rupert when he mentioned it was the start of his birthday celebrations. Dulcie suggested that if they didn’t spend too long eating, they could go and watch the sunset. She always said it was just like the sun dropping into the sea and telling everyone to wait for the splash.
They managed to find a little bar overlooking the whole of Graingcia where they ordered their coffee and sat in complete silence waiting for the sun to set. No matter how many times they watched it, it was always so special.
“I know this is a very special weekend and I’ve been going on and on about it, but that’s not just because it’s my birthday. It’s important for everyone here with us. When I was sitting by the pool this morning, I realised that everyone’s lives have changed in such big ways, so we’ve all got something to celebrate together.”
“You’re right, Rupert, although our lives are much the same. Yes, we’re very wealthy, but we’re still plodding along, enjoying each other’s company just as we were fifty years’ ago.”
“Yes, Dulcie. We’ve done lots of nice things with the money, but I don’t think we’ve changed in any way. Right, time for home! We’ve a busy few days ahead and I’ve so much to check on, as I think you two have forgotten it’s my birthday.”
Laughing all the way back in the taxi, Dulcie teased Rupert about how many weekend outfits he had and hopefully no one would be wearing anything to clash with him. That was something Rupert hadn’t even considered until now. Should he inspect people’s colour schemes? As they went through the gates of the villa after lots of goodnight hugs and kisses, Gemma walked up to the old house where Dario was sitting on the little terrace with a beer. She couldn’t get to him quickly enough. Okay, she might be a little merry, but she would feel the same even if she hadn’t had a few drinks.
“I love you so much, Dario, that I have to pinch myself to make sure it’s real. You’re my fella, I have the perfect life and there’s nothing more I want for. Well, perhaps one thing. Let’s go to bed and carry on from where we left off this morning.”
Chapter 52
Gemma was still smiling an hour or so after Dario had left for work. It had been extremely late when they finally got to sleep and that was only because he was worn out. Sleep was a waste of time when you could be making love to the most gorgeous man in Graingcia.
Mateo was at school and Maya was due to arrive later in the afternoon. They hadn’t seen each other for over a month, but Mateo wasn’t overly bothered about that. It was just the normal pattern of his life. He’d spent the early years of his life living alternately with each set of grandparents, so for him it was usual for family members to not be around constantly.
All of a sudden she saw movement over in the villa. Time to head over and get the party started! Well, perhaps not the party exactly, but the preparation for one. Gemma’s parents, Brian and Linda, would be the first to land in Almeria, but they would go straight to their own apartment and join Gemma at the villa later in the evening. Craig and Jodie would be on the same flight and share a taxi with them.
Gemma’s phone sprung to life with a text message. She knew it wouldn’t be from her parents or Craig. More likely Dario saying he loved her or was missing her. Something along those lines she guessed, and she was right. The text was from Dario but it just said, ‘I’m so tired’. She smiled to herself; to be honest, so was she!
“Morning, dear. What are you smiling about?”
“Morning, Dulcie. Oh, just a silly text from Dario.”
“Talking of Dario, when I got up in the night at about three o’clock, I noticed your bedroom light was on. Could that be why you’re smiling?”
Gemma’s expression gave her away. She and Dulcie had become such good friends that they could now read each other like a book. Rupert was still in bed, so they whispered together about their secret birthday arrangements. She had heard from everyone involved and although not all of them were confident about what they had to do, they would do their best. Their outfits were all hanging in one of the outside store rooms which Rupert never went into, and for added good measure, Dulcie had hidden the key.
“What are you two whispering about? Oh, I need a cup of tea, dear. My mouth thinks my throat’s been cut. By the way, we drank far too much last night, and I’m holding you two responsible for that. What was that I heard about outfits?”
“Nothing! Your tea’s ready and I’ve put up a list of the times we’re expecting people to arrive.”
“At last someone else is taking this birthday celebration seriously.”
“Oh shut up, Rupert! There’d be no weekend party if it wasn’t for us two. By the way, on Sunday you’re going out for a few hours as we’ve a few things yet to sort out. I’ve arranged for you to spend a few hours with Pablo. Further instruction will be given on the day.”
That knocked the smile off his face and he looked very confused, but they’d discuss that later. Gemma had the three bedrooms to dust ready for the visitors once she had sorted Dulcie and Rupert’s breakfast out, but first she was going to text Dario back ‘Are you popping back for an hour or so today? I’m waiting’. That would make him laugh. As much as she would have liked him to, she had so much to do today, but he did text back a ‘No way’.
The day had flown by and it was now six o’clock. Everyone had arrived and settled into their rooms. Gemma had prepared snacks for them all, but now after a nice long shower it was time to get ready for the barbecue. Standing at her bedroom window she had a snapshot view of everyone. Rupert, Craig and Jodie were on sunbeds by the pool, Maya and Mateo were playing on the grass with a ball and Dulcie, Jamie and Janice were on the top terrace. As she took in a very happy image of a special weekend, someone else appeared in the picture.
Walking through the gate was Dario and the butterflies appeared in her stomach, something that happened every time she saw him. Mateo ran and jumped into his arms and he carried him around as he went to speak to all the guests. After a while, novelty worn off, he jumped down and ran back to his mother and the football.
Once everyone had spoken to Dario they realised it was time to get ready for the evening. Gemma had given Mateo’s clothes to Maya because she guessed he wouldn’t leave her side.
“Hi, I’m back. Gemma, are you upstairs?”
“Yes.”
“I’ll just have a quick shower and then I’ll be down to light the barbecue.”
Gemma gave Dario a huge kiss and told him she was just going in the shower. He looked at her and said he thought she’d just had one as her hair was still wet. She smiled and went into the bathroom.
“I suppose it is a little early to light the barbecue but will I get out of the bathroom alive, Gemma?”
“We’ll have to see!”
An hour
later and both Gemma and Dario emerged a little sheepish from the house. The first people she saw were her mum and dad chatting to Craig and Jamie. Everyone else must still be getting ready.
“Mum, Dad! I didn’t hear you come in the gate, I’m sorry.”
There were lots of welcoming hugs and kisses and once Dario had a quick word, he went off to organise the barbecue.
“Are you alright, Gemma, darling? You look all hot and bothered. You’re not sickening for something, are you?”
“No, I’m fine. I’ve just had a very hot shower. I’m just going to sort some drinks out for everyone.”
As Gemma walked into the villa she thought to herself, Yes, the shower was extra hot having Dario in there with her, but as she had said to him, they had to make the most of the opportunities when Mateo wasn’t around. By the time she came out of the utility with a bucket of ice everyone was on the terrace except Rupert. Dulcie had commented on this saying he’d be the last as he’d want to make a grand entrance. Jamie put some background music on, while Linda insisted on helping Gemma with the drinks and nibbles, which she didn’t mind at all as it was nice to be doing things with her mum.
“You and Dario seem happier every time we come over, darling. I’m so pleased for both of you, because I’ll be honest when you told me Mateo was coming to live with you permanently I was a bit worried. Your dad said it would either make or break your relationship.”
“I had my concerns too, but it’s great. We have our own time together when Mateo’s with Dulcie and Rupert and he loves going to see his grandfather, Pablo, although he always comes back completely filthy and tired out. Talking of Pablo, he’s just come through the gate and look, he’s all dressed up. Not that he’s ever scruffy, but he’s really made an effort.”
With that Dulcie came into the villa and said should they have a little count down as now everyone was on the terrace it was time for a grand entrance. They heard a door close and Dulcie began counting – Five – Four – Three – Two – One – Show Time! Out walked Rupert head to toe in white with the brightest of bright, pink cravat. There was a round of applause, which of course he looked surprised about, but secretly he loved it all.
The weekend celebrations had started and everyone was enjoying themselves. Dario gave Gemma the nod to let her know the meat was nearly cooked, so with Linda’s help they carried all the breads and everything else out onto the big table. Dulcie also wanted to help, but Gemma and Linda wouldn’t hear of it, and everything was well under control. Or at least they thought it was. Back in the kitchen she noticed something to make her stop sharply in her tracks. Surely not? Since when? She was trying to think back to Janice’s last visit.
“Something wrong, darling?”
“No, Mum, at least I don’t think so. Ask me later tonight after I’ve thought a few things through. Now, Mateo, are you helping me or your dad? Do you want to tell everyone the food’s ready and pass the plates out for me? There’s a good boy, but first of all, come over here for me.”
He came running over to Gemma who wanted to give him a big hug and a kiss and tell him how lovely he looked in his new T-shirt and shorts. He kissed her back before running out shouting to everyone to eat.
As usual the food was a huge success. Everyone was having such a lovely time, although several times during the evening Gemma felt she could burst into tears. She had never felt like this before, but fought back her upset as she cleared things away, topped up people’s glasses and kept an eye on Janice.
It was getting late and Mateo was tired. He had stopped running round and was now curled up with Maya on one of the sofas. This was another thing that surprised Gemma. She was getting on so well with Maya. On paper this relationship would never have worked out, there were so many complications, but as nobody had any jealousies, it was all fine although Gemma did wonder why Maya didn’t want to be with Mateo all the time. However, that wasn’t her business or her problem. She was also surprised that neither Rupert not Dulcie had given a speech thanking everyone for coming, although perhaps it was more a gathering of family and friends who loved being together than a party.
As the sun set and the light faded, Gemma decided to light the candles around the terrace. Dario saw what she was doing, took the matches out of her hand and insisted on doing it for her, but not before whispering in her ear how much he loved her and how he was hoping that Mateo would sleep in the villa with Maya. Gemma again had butterflies in her stomach. She kissed him back and said that she hoped so too.
Gemma left Dario to light the candles and went to gather up the last of the dirty plates. As she was loading them into the dishwasher, Dulcie walked in with some glasses.
“So, Gemma, a bit of a shock, don’t you think?”
“What’s that?”
“Oh, don’t tell me you haven’t noticed, dear. You’re like me, don’t miss a trick. By the look on your face you know exactly what I’m mean. Janice!”
“Dulcie, is it a problem if they’re both happy together? They’re both single after all, and perhaps that’s what she needs in her life. A man, to replace the alcohol.”
“Yes, you’re right. I don’t have a problem with it, but whoever would have thought it. Janice and Pablo!”
Chapter 53
“Good morning, my darling. I don’t really want to wake you, but you’d not be happy if I didn’t. It’s half-past seven and I think you said you wanted to be over at the villa for eight o’clock. I’ve made you a coffee.”
“Thanks, Dario, didn’t we have a lovely night?”
“Yes, I’m still tired though. You wore me out again.”
“I meant the party! Wasn’t it fabulous? It has to be one of my favourite nights here in Graingcia. Are you alright? It’s not this business with Pablo and Janice, is it? Maybe I’m wrong? I might not have read it the right way.”
“Yes, but you said Dulcie noticed as well. There must be a good twenty year age difference there, somehow it…”
“…it is different, but nothing happened. He left the party by himself, kissed everyone good night and Janice went off to her room, but if it helps perhaps you should speak to him. Now we’ve wasted five minutes! We’ve only got twenty minutes until I need to be over at the villa. Oh, too late. Mateo’s running up to the house. You’d better let him in and stop worrying. Janice isn’t all bad, she’s changed her behaviour and perhaps Pablo’s the reason behind that.”
Breakfast went without any hitches. There were lots of birthday wishes for Rupert, but as they had been told cards and presents weren’t until eleven on the bottom terrace, Dario had nipped out to get the birthday balloons. The champagne was being chilled and everyone was taking turns playing with Mateo and talking about the previous evening. Rupert was telling everyone how he had taught Dario how to barbecue, which everyone realised was far from the truth as Dario had been cooking on a barbecue since he was a child.
This was the day Rupert had planned for his birthday. “God help anyone who doesn’t stick to the given schedule,” Dulcie whispered to Gemma. Rupert would have two outfits prepared – one for the present opening and another for the big dinner up in Roncia.
The table was laden with presents and cards, balloons were everywhere, and the champagne and glasses were ready. Ten minutes to spare! Dulcie and Gemma giggled as they waited for Rupert’s grand entrance. They knew him so well. He’d put on an act, telling everyone they shouldn’t have gone to so much trouble and what a huge surprise all this was, while everyone of course knew that he was the instigator of it all.
With that the gate opened and in walked Linda, Brian and Pablo. Dulcie gave Gemma a look and at the same time they looked for a reaction from Janice but as per usual Mateo was there first, jumping up to Pablo.
Everyone was ready. Jamie was standing by the kitchen ready to give the nod when Rupert came out of his bedroom. Once he walked down to everyone that was their cue to start singing ‘Happy Birthday’ but Gemma was more interested in Janice. Surprisingly, she hadn’t given away a
ny clues. Although she had walked over beside Pablo, they hadn’t really made a lot of eye contact and by the time they had all finished singing, Jamie had taken control of pouring out the champagne. Dulcie handed Rupert a birthday card one at a time and then disposed of the envelope. It was so choreographed, just as Rupert had planned, but nobody could deny that it was a special occasion. Gemma felt herself becoming emotional again. Brian noticed this and went over to comfort her.
“Your mum and I are so proud of you, darling. None of this would have happened if it wasn’t for you. Dulcie and Rupert never stop telling us how well you look after them and make their lives so comfortable. You’re a very special person, Gemma. Look at the way you’ve taken on Mateo. It’s unbelievable. We’re both so happy for you, and also to think how our lives have changed since we bought the apartment here. Our health’s improved and we’re enjoying being together because we’ve learnt an important lesson. Life’s for living, not just working.”
“Thanks, Dad. I know I gave you and Mum so much worry with pulling out of university and not knowing what I wanted to do with my life, but I know I’ve got all I could have possibly dreamt of now.”
Cards opened, it was now time for the presents. This was the part Dulcie and Gemma were slightly concerned about as Rupert was so difficult to buy for. Hopefully he would react to presents positively with a big happy smile and thank yous. Gemma knew her and Dulcie’s present would be well received as Rupert himself had told them what he wanted, although she did wonder what his reaction to Mateo’s present would be. In fact, that one was the first he opened. A big, pink dinosaur. Mateo had chosen it himself without understanding that it could be construed as Rupert being a dinosaur, but it was a lovely bright present and everyone laughed and said it was the perfect gift.
Champagne glasses were topped up, and for the next half hour everyone gathered round to see Rupert open his gifts. Surprisingly, all gifts were acceptable – cravats, cufflinks, beautiful ties, aftershave, not forgetting a vintage bottle of whisky. Gemma and Linda went off to prepare lunch while the others couldn’t wait to get into the pool. It was going to be a lovely afternoon before the big birthday dinner up in Roncia.